To give rural children a meaningful summer.

During the summer, children's need for recreation and experiences increases, while playgrounds in many rural areas are limited. Youth Union branches at all levels are implementing many activities to create a safe and enriching environment for children.

Children participate in activities at the "Listening to Children Speak" Forum in 2026, organized by the Provincial Youth Union and the Provincial Children's Council. Photo: MI NI

In early June, as the school year ended, 14-year-old Nguyen Huu That, residing in Vinh Thuan commune, began his familiar summer vacation. After breakfast, That helped his parents with some household chores before returning to his phone. He would watch videos on social media, play games, or text his friends. “I’d love to play soccer, learn to swim, or participate in fun activities with my friends. But there aren’t many places to play near my house, so during the summer I mostly stay home and watch my phone,” That said.

While urban children have many options such as enrichment classes, sports clubs, or skills centers, many rural areas still have limited recreational opportunities. Infrequent recreational activities and a lack of play spaces make smartphones the most accessible option for children during summer vacation. However, spending too much time on electronic devices also leads to many negative consequences. Children risk reduced social interaction, less physical activity, and negative impacts on their physical and mental health. Furthermore, they face numerous risks in the online environment if they lack adult guidance and supervision.

At the 2026 "Listening to Children Speak" Forum organized by the Provincial Youth Union and the Provincial Children's Council, many children expressed their desire for more playgrounds, skills training classes, sports activities, and experiential learning opportunities in their localities. Mr. Du Pham Huu Khuyen, Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Youth Union and Chairman of the Provincial Children's Council, stated: "Based on this practical need, the Youth Union and Children's Council at all levels in the province are striving to create more free and beneficial playgrounds for children during the summer. These programs are not just about simple fun activities; they also aim to equip children with life skills, digital skills, and skills to prevent and respond to accidents and injuries, contributing to building a safe living environment for children."

Recently, the Provincial Youth Union, in coordination with other units, organized the 2026 Provincial Children's Counseling and Assistance Club program in Chau Doc ward, with approximately 100-200 students participating. The program focused on raising awareness about children's rights, the Children's Law, skills in preventing accidents and injuries, and preventing child abuse; it also included a cultural performance to mark the launch of the 2026 Action Month for Children.

The Provincial Youth Activities and Youth Entrepreneurship Center organizes competitions to test knowledge of Vietnamese history, children's cultural and sports festivals, etc., creating a healthy and beneficial playground for children during the summer.

In Vinh Phong commune, organizing summer activities for children is identified as one of the key focuses of the 2026 Summer Youth Volunteer Campaign. According to the plan, the Vinh Phong Commune Youth Union will organize summer activities in residential areas, children's festivals, weekend playgrounds, reading spaces, creative experiential activities, and free summer classes. This year, the Vinh Phong Commune Youth Union aims to organize activities to improve foreign language skills and international integration for 350 young people; and provide support to 50 disadvantaged children.

According to Mr. Do Minh The, Secretary of the Vinh Phong Commune Youth Union, the biggest challenge currently is the limited infrastructure for children in rural areas. Many families also lack the financial means to enroll their children in paid classes. Therefore, the locality prioritizes organizing free activities so that all children have the opportunity to participate. "In the coming time, the Commune Youth Union will continue to mobilize its members and young people to organize experiential activities, group activities, and open free swimming classes for children," Mr. The said.

In Vinh Thuan commune, the Youth Union plans to connect with student volunteer teams in July to organize a foreign language proficiency class for children in the area. The program will be integrated with recreational activities, physical exercise, and skill development, contributing to providing children with a safe, enriching, and meaningful summer experience.

MINI

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/de-tre-em-nong-thon-co-mua-he-y-nghia-a487751.html